Enhanced Rail Connectivity for South Tamil Nadu
In a development that promises improved rail connectivity for South Tamil Nadu, the Chennai-Tirunelveli Vande Bharat Express is expected to make its debut in November this year. This eagerly anticipated train service will connect five major cities in Tamil Nadu, including Tirunelveli, Madurai, Dindigul, Trichy, and Chennai. The train is slated to cover a distance of 650 kilometers (404 miles) within a travel time of 8 hours.
Upcoming Train Details
The upcoming Chennai to Tirunelveli New Vandhe Bharat Express will operate under the train number 20631. Southern Railways has reportedly allocated approximately 5 train rakes for this service, and operations are set to commence shortly.
Track Upgrades and Faster Completion
Originally scheduled to begin in September, the Vande Bharat Express service between Tirunelveli and Chennai faced the need for track upgrades and the removal of sharp curves along the route. However, progress on these improvements has outpaced expectations. Consequently, a 7-hour train service from Chennai to Tirunelveli is expected to launch soon, as stated by a senior official from the Southern Railways.
Sleeper Facilities
It has been reported that the Vande Bharat trains running between Tirunelveli and Chennai will offer sleeper facilities, enhancing the comfort and convenience of passengers.
Existing Vande Bharat Services
The Chennai-Coimbatore Vande Bharat Express trains currently operate with train numbers 20643/20644, offering services six days a week. This route covers a distance of 495 kilometers (308 miles) and boasts a travel time of 5 hours and 50 minutes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated this train service on April 8, 2023.
Additionally, the Vande Bharat service between Chennai and Vijayawada was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July of the same year. This express train travels through Guntur, Renigunta, and Katpadi to reach Chennai, returning via the same route. Thanks to the Vande Bharat train, the intercity travel time between Vijayawada and Chennai has been reduced by 20 minutes, providing a quicker and more efficient mode of transportation for passengers.
